Thursday, November 16, 2017

At Dr. Kent Carlomagno’s Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, we use non-invasive chiropractic techniques to treat a variety of back and nerve problems. A problem in the spine can have repercussions elsewhere in the body, and that’s especially true of problems in the lower back. Today, we’ll look at the lowest part of the back of all: the coccyx.

The coccyx is also known as the tailbone, but it’s actually a fusion of several vertebrae. It’s relatively rare for it to get bruised or broken, but it can be as the result of biking or horseback riding accidents or problems during pregnancy. When the coccyx is in pain, we call that coccydynia. A pinched nerve in this location can cause symptoms of sciatica, including incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and pain or tingling in one or both legs.

It will take some time for a coccyx injury to heal naturally, during which the patient will be in discomfort. We aim to reduce their pain through means such as adjustments and therapeutic pelvic floor exercises. We can also recommend specialty cushions or wedges that are easier to sit on for a person who is avoiding putting pressure on their tailbone.

Friday, November 10, 2017

Falling leaves mean more yard work, and at Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Raphael, we want to make sure our patients know how to stay safe. Underestimating the amount of effort that goes into raking could leave you with a strained back.

When doing yard work, it is advised that people wear slip-resistant close-toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves made from a material that is warm, but breathable. Clothes should be form-fitting, but not restrict movement, and people should not wear dangling jewelry when using equipment.

Warm up by doing dynamic stretches and remember proper lifting techniques (head up, push with your legs, test an object’s balance, etc.). When raking, the American Chiropractic Association recommends standing with the rake to your side, with one foot forward and one back, and alternating every few minutes. Also alternate which hand is higher (meaning you’ll have to switch which side of the pile you’re standing on). Keep your back and neck straight, and remember not to overstuff the bag. Try lifting the bag before moving it; if it’s too difficult, transfer some leaves to a different bag.

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Dr. Kent Carlomagno of Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center offers cold laser therapy to patients suffering from muscle pain. Cold laser therapy can be used almost anywhere on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. If you have acute or chronic muscle pain in your neck, back, or shoulders and chiropractic adjustments haven’t helped you, cold laser therapy could be the solution for you. Patients suffering from sprains, arthritis, and tendonitis are often recommended this treatment because it also helps reduce inflammation.

The laser is a small handheld device placed directly on the skin in the affected area. It uses light to stimulate affected muscle tissue and has the ability to penetrate two to five centimeters below the skin. The laser is applied to the affected area for anywhere from 30 seconds to several minutes at a time. Treatments are usually scheduled a few times a week, and the length of a treatment plan can vary. Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free solution with no adverse side effects.